The TC has written two stories about the threat of the goldspotted oab borer — now found in San Diego County.
The insect plants its larvae in several species of oak. After several generations, only years in oak time, the time will die. Think of the damage that bark beetles create in pines.
So far the oak borer has not been found in Riverside County. While it can fly, it’s best form of migration is stealing a ride on a four-wheel vehicle.
If you buy oak fire wood in Riverside County or on the Hill, you should be sure to ask the seller where he obtained the wood.
There is no inspection or certification program available to guarantee that the insect will be contained to the county to the south and not illegally immigrate here.
The way we can police and safeguard our “Hill” is to be vigilant and careful ourselves. You’ll have to inspect and look for the “D” shaped holes. If it’s split, perhaps on the edge near the bark you might observe the larvae galleries.
As the temperatures drop, many entrepreneurs sell their firewood across the street from the Town Crier. Unfortunately, we are not the “wood” police, despite what you think!
I have asked several vendors what kind of wood they have although I didn’t see any oak. And was surprised to learn that almond is a good hot burner.
I’ve also inquired about their source. Riverside and Fallbrook are the most frequently cited areas.
The Forest Service plans to make more local oak wood available from thinning and hazardous fuels removal projects. Check with Hal Carey, the local forester (909) 382-2946. Or call the Cal Fire foresters at the Mountain Resource Center on Franklin Drive (951) 659-3337.
And please not, this villain's name is "Goldspotted", not "goldenspotted" — a mistake that we made several times in those published articles!
P.S. 2:30 pm
This afternoon, a vendor is offering a half cord of oak for $130. He says the wood is from north of here, between Idyllwild and Banning — Poppet Flats. That's what he says.
